Datsun Go+ MPV India review, test drive

Datsun, the latest entrant in the budget segment, started off its innings with the Go hatchback. While that car is giving competition to budget heavyweights like Maruti's Alto and Hyundai's Eon, Datsun is ready to compete in the compact MPV segment with the Go+.  

What is it?

It’s basically a Datsun Go with extra space in the rear and seen head on, it looks exactly like the hatchback. Everything from the hexagonal grille, the V in the bonnet to the wrap-around headlights with metal inserts and the windscreen are the same. There's the same three-cylinder, all-aluminium 1.2-litre engine with high-tech features like one ignition coil per cylinder, producing 67bhp at 5000rpm and powering this larger car. But it has been tuned to be more responsive. And then while there's the identical wheelbase and 155/70 R13 tyres, the suspension has been slightly stiffened to handle the greater weight better. Changes on the estate car like Datsun Go+ from the hatchback start past the rear door. The roofline swoops down and the beltline arcs up to provide a nice effect, and the 'flick' on the shoulder looks quite stylish. The hatch at the rear is a fresh design with a slimmer rear windscreen. Where Datsun has really done well is in limiting this mini-MPV's length to under four metres, which enables it to fit into that crucial category for every carmaker looking to dodge taxation.

What's it like on the inside?

There's not much new to be said once you climb into the cabin as it's basically a Go hatchback upfront. You are greeted by the dashboard that you'd be familiar with if you've been in the first Datsun product. It's stylish and functional but hardly one with substance. Even the air-con system is basic with a four-speed blower and no option to de-fog or re-circulate. With seating, the front seats are as slim, flat so u tend to slide around. But there's no seat height adjust, or steering adjust here either. It's the second row that seems to have witnessed some improvement  and it feels like a bit more airy and comfortable place to be in. However, it's still as lacking in thigh support. The all important third row, needs to be accessed by folding and flipping the second row seats forward. But the added row is not a space you would want to fit into. There is just no space for adults here. And this applies even for children. The bench is on the floor with absolutely no space to rest your feet and your head (even for those of average height) will knock against the descending roof. What it can be used for, is luggage; it can hold at least three to four large bags here. In fact, with the second and third row folded down, the Go+ has the practicality of a mini estate car.